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Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, accounting for approximately 28.2% of all female cancer cases in India, with an estimated 216,108 cases by 2022. As per recent studies, SURVCAN-3 and CONCORD-3 India have shown low survival rates for breast cancer cases. The reasons include a lack of breast care awareness, knowledge of its risk factors, early detection methods, and limited access to quality health care. If you're concerned about getting breast cancer, don't worry; be aware of breast cancer symptoms and adopt some habits for its prevention. This blog will give information on how to prevent breast cancer by changing your lifestyle habits.
Synopsis
Understanding Breast Cancer
Just like other cancers, breast cancer occurs when cells grow uncontrollably in the breast, forming a tumour. Although breast cancer affects mostly women, men can also get this cancer. Most cases get diagnosed when they have reached stage 3 breast cancer, which is an advanced stage, thus making early screening and awareness vital. This cancer can affect anyone, but some risk factors increase your chances of developing this disease.
However, some risk factors, like family history, sex, gender, etc., cannot be changed, but adopting certain lifestyle habits can lower your chances of developing breast cancer.
Also Check: Early Detection of Breast Cancer
7 Lifestyle Habits That Lower Breast Cancer Chances
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Living an Active Lifestyle: Exercise regularly and stay active, which helps you maintain a healthy weight and can prevent breast cancer. It also lowers oestrogen levels and strengthens the immune system. The doctor recommends aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise per week. Aerobic exercises like brisk walking, swimming, biking, and running are best. Even strength training can be done at least twice a week. Something is always better than nothing, so live an active lifestyle by moving more and sitting less to lower your risk of breast cancer.
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Maintaining a Healthy Weight: Being overweight increases your chances of getting breast cancer and other chronic lifestyle diseases. So, try to keep your weight in check and maintain a healthy weight by exercising and eating a balanced diet. If you are overweight, focus on losing weight by increasing the amount of exercise and eating fewer calories. Excess body fat increases oestrogen levels, increasing the growth of certain types of breast cancer.
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Eating a Balanced Diet: Keeping an eye on what you eat can reduce the risk of cancer, as certain foods can increase the risk. Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins helps in maintaining overall health. Add foods like berries, fatty fish, and leafy green vegetables to your diet, as they are antioxidants and support the body’s immune system. Also, limit the consumption of high-calorie, sugary, and processed foods, red meat, and processed meats, which are known to increase the risk of breast cancer.
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Limiting Alcohol Consumption: Consuming alcohol increases the risk of breast cancer and other diseases. Alcohol can damage the DNA in cells by raising oestrogen levels. Although avoiding alcohol reduces the risk, if one chooses to drink, it should be done in moderation, limiting it to one drink per day.
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Quitting Smoking: The use of tobacco is linked to an increased risk of many cancers, including breast cancer. The carcinogens present in tobacco can damage cells and contribute to the development of cancer. If you are a smoker, ask your healthcare provider about ways to quit smoking. This will not only reduce your risk of breast cancer but also improve your overall health.
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Breastfeeding: Many research studies suggest that breastfeeding your baby for a longer time can lower your risk of breast cancer. The longer you breastfeed, the fewer menstrual cycles you will experience, lowering the exposure to oestrogen and protecting you against breast cancer.
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Staying Informed and Regular Screening: Early detection of breast cancer can increase your chances of survival. This is possible by staying informed regarding the various breast cancer symptoms and screening tests available. Regular mammograms and self- and clinical examination of breasts can detect cancer early, leading to better treatment. Check with your doctor about how often you should undergo screening based on your risk factors. Genetic counselling and testing may also be recommended for individuals with a family history of breast cancer.
Breast Cancer Awareness
Every October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month is celebrated. This is a global campaign to raise awareness regarding breast care, the importance of early detection, education, and research. It’s a time for individuals, communities, and organisations to come together and support those affected by the disease. Sharing information about breast cancer symptoms, prevention and encouraging women to undergo mammogram screening can save lives.
Conclusion
Although breast cancer cannot be completely prevented, understanding how to prevent breast cancer through healthy lifestyle choices can significantly reduce your risk. By maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active, eating a nutritious diet, and avoiding alcohol and tobacco, you can lower your chances of developing breast cancer. While genetics and age are common causes of breast cancer, lifestyle and environmental factors also play a major role.
Read About: Mammography-Breast Cancer Screening In Goa
It's also important to stay informed and participate in regular screenings, as early detection saves lives. Seek a consultation with the breast cancer experts at Manipal Hospitals, Goa, as every step you take towards a healthier life is a step towards reducing your risk.
FAQ's
The usual early breast cancer symptoms include apparent skin changes such as redness, swelling, or any other visible abnormalities in the breast skin of either breast, as well as an increase in the size, shape, or appearance of the breasts. If you notice any changes or lumps, immediately book an appointment with a doctor to rule out malignancy.
For early detection of breast cancer, perform a breast self-exam at home at least once a month starting at age 20, have a clinical breast exam every 3 years between ages 20 to 39, and annually beyond age 40. Additionally, get a mammogram every year after age 40.
Yes, menopause can affect breast cancer risk. While early menopause can increase the risk of breast cancer by two times, late menopause (after the age of 55) is also associated with a higher risk due to prolonged exposure to estrogen, according to research. Regular screenings and lifestyle adjustments can help in early detection and risk management.
Undergoing a mammogram is considered safe for every woman, irrespective of whether they are a breastfeeding mother or pregnant. This test won’t harm the baby or breast milk.
The doctor will enquire about your medical and family history of breast cancer. Then, we will perform a clinical breast exam to look for any lumps or abnormalities. A mammogram or additional tests like an ultrasound or MRI may also be suggested for further evaluation.
You can schedule an appointment at Manipal Hospitals, Goa, by contacting us or visiting our website.
Visit: https://www.manipalhospitals.com/goa/specialities/cancer-care/
Contact no: 1800 102 5555
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